Shuttle bus brings riders to farmers' market

The Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA) is providing a new, free service aimed at increasing access to healthy foods for Durham residents.

DATA will pilot a shuttle bus running between Durham Station, 515 W. Pettigrew St., and the Durham Farmers’ Market on Foster Street. The free shuttle will run every 15 minutes on Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., beginning July 19 and running through Aug. 23.

“We applaud DATA for providing this service to Durham residents,” said Durham County Public Health Director Gayle B. Harris. “They are helping Durham County meet our goal of providing all residents with access to healthy foods. The shuttle will allow residents with disabilities, seniors, low-individuals and other residents who lack transportation an opportunity to shop at the farmers market.”

Currently, the closest bus stop is a few blocks from the market, leaving customers to walk up a hill with their groceries as the only option to ride the bus. The free shuttle will drop customers off at Central Park on the corner of West Corporation and Foster streets. The new shuttle coincides with the market’s launch of their Double Bucks program. Starting Saturday, the Durham Farmers’ Market will start doubling SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps) up to $10.

“We are trying to make it possible for everyone to have access to fresh, healthy foods at the Durham Farmers’ Market,” says Erin Kauffman, Durham Farmers’ Market manager. “The shuttle will not only help those customers who struggle to find transportation but also help alleviate problems with parking as our market continues to grow.”

The shuttle will be a Bull City Connector bus designated with a “SPECIAL” head sign. GoLive real-time tracking will be available for the shuttle via the free Transloc app and at http://live.gotriangle.org.